Timberwolves vs Rockets Preview: Big Stars, Big Stakes

Friday brings a big West matchup as Minnesota visits Houston. The Timberwolves sit at 47-33 while the Rockets are 51-29, so both teams chase position. Anthony Edwards is questionable with a knee issue, and Rudy Gobert will rest again. Houston will miss Fred VanVleet and Steven Adams. If Edwards can’t play, Ayo Dosunmu or Terrence Shannon could start. Expect lots of isolation scoring and paint fights, with bench players needing to step up.

This game will focus on stars and role players. Kevin Durant still leads Houston in scoring and can take over late. Alperen Sengun makes the Rockets run through the post and adds rebounding and assists. Minnesota lacks Rudy Gobert, so Naz Reids size matters. Defensive matchups with Jaden McDaniels could slow scorers, while Minnesotas guard group needs steadiness. Watch for turnovers, bench scoring, and who handles late-game pressure.

Expect a physical battle with star shots and bench bursts. If Edwards plays, Minnesotas offense opens up; if he sits, the Wolves must find scoring from Randle and bench guards. Houston needs Durant and Sengun to keep spacing and passing crisp. Watch foul trouble and late isolation plays because those shape close games. This matchup could affect playoff seeding, so both teams will compete hard and test their depth down the stretch.